The Lhasa Apso is a breed of dog that originates from Tibet, China.  Once used as watchdogs for the inside of Tibetan monasteries, now the Lhasa Apso is most commonly a companion breed.
   
    Lhasa Apsos stand between 10-11 inches at the withers and weigh between 12-16 pounds.  Females tend to be smaller then males.  They have a long, heavy, double coat, which is hard and dense.  The coat comes in a variety of colors and shade, the most common being gold, cream, and honey.  Other colors are shades of brown, white, and black.  The coat of a pup will often change colors and shades as it grows.  The tail of the Lhasa Apso is curled, feathered, and carried over its back.
     
    Recent DNA analysis shows that the Lhasa Apso is one of the oldest breeds of dogs.  It is believed that the dog has existed in Tibet since 800 B.C.  In its native land it is known as the Abso Seng Kye, the “Bark Lion Sentinel Dog”.  At the monasteries large Mastiffs were chained outside to prevent the entrance of intruders and the Lhasa Apso were used inside.  They were never sold to outsiders, or common folk, instead they were given as gifts.  It wasn’t until the early 1900s that the Lhasa Apso became known outside of Tibet.
   
    Because of their history as watch dogs the Lhasa Apso is an alert breed, and will always let their owners know if something is amiss.  They are outgoing and a loving breed, and yet also independent.  Most tend to be wary of strangers, and generally will not forgive someone who has wronged them.  They are not recommended around young children.  Socialization as a puppy is a must with human and canine alike, Lhasa Apsos tend to fight with other dogs kept within their household.